Short answer
Network DLP blocks sensitive data that managed devices send to AI apps. Application-layer DLP redacts it inside your own app, on any device.
In detail: Network DLP vs Application-Layer DLP for AI
Network DLP (Cloudflare Gateway):
- Central policy management and one audit log for all traffic through the Cloudflare WARP client.
- Needs WARP and a trusted TLS inspection certificate on the device.
- Best for managed staff devices using AI apps.
Application-layer DLP:
- Detection and redaction run in the application code, for example on Cloudflare Workers, so ID numbers, email addresses and amounts are replaced before data reaches the model or the user.
- Works for any client and any device, with no software to install.
- Best for MCP servers, APIs and AI agents, where data flows between systems rather than through a browser.
Most organisations need both: network DLP for people, application-layer DLP for agents and apps. FirstNet designs the mix as part of a defence-in-depth approach.